The Process
At Aadikara, we design with a minimalistic approach, to create simple yet profound building blocks in glass and metal and whenever required, brings these blocks together to create jewelry and other accessories, which in their final form, appear as detailed, multi-dimensional and carefully layered and which she intends, shall add to the attire and persona of the user carrying them.
The entire design process, is carried out keeping in mind the available techniques to manipulate both glass and metal as the main materials, the subsequent production, aesthetic value as well as the functional ease. The attention to detail, also includes imbibing an effortlessness with which the accessories can be carried by the end user. The aim is to always achieve a balanced workflow in which each and every part of the process compliments each other, and which adds an element of sustainability to the way the products at Aadikara, come to life.
Reflecting the inspiration, along with the human touch which goes behind hand-crafting each artefact, she aspires that her work should expand and morph into nothing less than a work of storytelling; a manifestation of time, space, workmanship and emotions, represented as a story told in glass.
WORKING WITH CRAFT CLUSTERS:
Debasmita’s formal introduction to the world of craft clusters in India and the diverse range of techniques and processes, the artisans and master craftsmen, started when she was a student at NIFT. The practices, which these skilled makers follow, range from age old traditions to modern ways of fabrication. Visiting these clusters, as a student to document and observe and later while seeking a concrete production method for her own designs, exposed her to different ways in which she can approach her work with glass.
GLASS ARTISANS OF FIROZABAD, UTTAR PRADESH:
Glass pieces form the core around which the production of accessories takes place. Once the design is finalized, glass pieces are made by artisans at Firozabad who specialize in various techniques and processes required to give glass the desired form. Some notable techniques used are Flamework and Lathe work with solid glass, hollow rods and tubes. It took a while to impart initial training to the skilled artisans and to align them along with the aesthetics that were required but ever since the initial hurdles were crossed, the craftsmanship of the artisans added a magnificent touch to her designs, making each accessory, unique in a true sense.
JEWELRY ARTISANS OF SINGUR, WEST BENGAL:
Glass pieces, once done are then sent to artisans in Singur, West Bengal who make the metal part of the designs through processes such as lost wax casting and hand building. A major part of assembly, of the glass and metal components, too happens here. The rest of it, happens in Ahmedabad.
JEWELRY ARTISANS OF AHMEDABAD:
‘The walled city’ or popularly known as the old city of Ahmedabad, houses a variety of micro, small and medium scale economic activities. They thrive within the larger ecosystem of the city, as its smaller components and are also a part of the living heritage which forms the identity of the city as a whole. One such unit, exists in and around Manek chowk area of Ahmedabad, where artisans work with jewelry in gold, silver and other metals. The availability of these artisans within the city and the expertise which they offer, paves way for a collaboration which results into sampling work, explorations with new designs and creating prototype jewelry whenever required, before sending them for further production
